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Bangkok to Bali

Bangkok to Bali

From $ 6,990 AUD

Description

South East Asia is brimming with colourful cities, picturesque coastline and delicious regional eats, and on this 25-day adventure from Bangkok to Ubud, you’ll discover both its highlights and lesser-known spots. Travel through Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia with a local leader to help you seek out the most authentic experiences along the way. Cruise past the karst hills of Ao Nang, hike up Mt Bromo and cycle through the Yogyakarta countryside. With time to explore the pulsating cities of Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, you’ll get the run-down of the best of this region. See golden temples and saffron-robed monks, walk along soft white sand beaches under bright blue skies and taste tantalising seafood – this small-group adventure is hard to beat.

Trip Name
Bangkok to Bali
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
25
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Fall in love with four South East Asian capitals – Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Jakarta, each with its own unique character. Zigzag through laneways in search of local eateries, sip coffee while people watching and ride on a tuk-tuk.
  • Dive into natural wonders when you explore Khao Sok National Park, cruise along Cheow Lan Lake in a longtail boat and go on a guided walk through the jungle and rice paddies of Seloliman Nature Reserve.
  • Kayak through stunning inlets, caves and hidden lagoons in Krabi and chill out away from the crowds at the beachside paradise of Pemuteran on Bali’s less-visited north coast.
  • Climb Mt Bromo in the early hours of the morning. If the conditions are right, you'll be rewarded with a dazzling view over mist-laden volcanoes.
  • Taste the diversity of South East Asian flavours, from fresh seafood in Ao Nang to hawker food stalls in Penang and a coffee and cacao plantation tour in the mountain village of Kalibaru.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in Thailand's bustling capital – Bangkok, famous for its tuk-tuks, Khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your fellow travellers and local leader. If you arrive early (and it’s recommended that you do), why not take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, see the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down Khao San Road or indulge in a Thai massage. After the meeting, maybe join your group and tuck into some into some street food.
Day 2 - Bangkok
Begin the day with a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the khlongs (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Visit Wat Pho – one of the Bangkok temples with a 46-m-long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, at 3 m long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls and shrines. Tonight, you’ll take an overnight train journey to Surat Thani.
Day 3 - Phrom Lok Homestay
Arrive at Surat Thani in the morning, then travel by minivan to Khao Sok. Set amid hectares of thick jungle, waterfalls, limestone cliffs and an island-studded lake, the national park of Khao Sok is a nature lover's paradise. Here, you’ll have free time to explore one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Walk along the dirt trails that snake through the quiet park, looking out for wildlife as you head for rivers and waterfalls. Look out for the rare Rafflesia Kerri – one of the world’s largest flowers, only found in Thailand. Spend the night in a rustic hut within the ancient trees of the rainforest.
Day 4 - Phrom Lok Homestay
Travel through jungle, rubber and oil plantations before boarding a long tail boat for a ride across Cheow Lan Lake. With limestone karsts rising almost 1000 m out of the green waters, this area is incredibly picturesque. You’ll trek to an island cave to see the eerie stalactites and bats hanging from the ceiling, with subterranean streams at your feet. Have lunch in a local raft-house before soaking up some free time to relax, swim or kayak around the lake to search for wildlife – the water is clear and teems with aquatic life, and you can also look out for hornbills, langurs, macaques and gibbons.
Day 5 - Ao Nang
Head to Ao Nang in a private minivan, stopping at Baan Bor Tor along the way. When you arrive, embark on a sea kayaking journey. About halfway along the coast between Than Bok Khoranee and Krabi town is a bay of mangroves that might just be the most beautiful bay in Thailand. Surrounded by towering karst formations and many small offshore islands, these waterways will be your pathway as you move slowly through the bays and canyons, through the inlets, caves and hidden lagoons. Look out for the birds overhead and the monkeys in the trees – if you do see a monkey, make sure you secure your belongings and any food! Arrive at Ao Nang late in the afternoon, where you’ll have a free evening.
Day 6 - Ao Nang
If you’re a nature lover, Krabi might just be your favourite spot. Today is a free day to soak up everything this island has to offer. Maybe head to the water for a diving adventure or take a daytrip to explore Phi Phi and Khai Nok – these islands are surrounded by white sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The area around Krabi is also home to some of the best climbing routes. Whether you're a novice or a pro, being securely tied high up a limestone cliff-face looking down on jungle and is an unforgettable experience! Tonight, maybe watch the sunset light up the sky and indulge in some local seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Day 7 - Trang
This morning, you’ll head on to the small village of Baan Mod Tanoy. When you arrive, you’ll go on a walk around the village and gain some insight into the locals’ day to day life. Then, time to enjoy the great food and hospitality of the village. Get your hands dirty with some Batik handkerchief dyeing and learn a few tricks from the local craftsman at a workshop showcasing this traditional art. Your accommodation tonight is in a local resort in the village.
Day 8 - Pulau Penang
Say goodbye to Thailand this morning – you're off to Malaysia! The island of Penang was the first destination of the colonial British in 1786 and they invited the Chinese (as well as others from all over Asia) to live on this island in the tropics. Today, this fusion of cultures still exists, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Georgetown shows the fascinating mix in its range of places of worship. When you arrive, you’ll take an orientation walk around the tumble-down shops and hawker-filled alleyways to get your bearings. The food here might just be the best in Malaysia, so you’ll seek out some hawker food stalls with your leader and get a taste for the local cuisine. Sample some local specialties such as nasi kandar, Penang laksa and char kway teow.
Day 9 - Pulau Penang
Take a half-day sightseeing walking tour around Penang and Georgetown, soaking up the relaxed pace of life and the mix of cultures. See the original 19th century shophouses, the street markets, and the strong cultural and religious identity still on display in each neighbourhood – Little India, Chinatown or the Muslim Quarter. Check out the street art and stop by a clan jetty – clans were formed by 19th century immigrants who banded together based on the area of China that they came from, and they built rival waterfront societies on wooden jetties. Visit Thai and Burmese temples like Kek Lok Si – the largest Buddhist temple in South East Asia. You’ll have this afternoon free top explore at your own pace. Maybe see the clan house of Khoo Kongsi and check out the ornate carvings on the walls, roof and pillars. Maybe see more Chinese architecture in the blue Courtyard House of Cheong Fatt Tze – a wealthy merchant.
Day 10 - Kuala Lumpur
Continue south to Kuala Lumpur – the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia, affectionately known as KL by the locals. Communities of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malay people mingle peacefully, allowing travellers to get the best of all three worlds. KL has grown from a sleepy little village to a skyscraper-lined multi-million-peopled metropolis. The city can seem vast, but the focus is the traditional core of the Old Town (the former colonial centre), the luxury hotel and shopping mall district of the Golden Triangle, and bustling Chinatown and Little India. Follow your leader on an orientation walk near the hotel and tonight, follow the Bukit Bintang Walkway and see the Petronas Twin Towers lit at night. From simple-street side fare that attracts queues of customers eager to high-calibre, world-class cuisine, you’ll have no problem finding a good dinner spot.
Day 11 - Kuala Lumpur
Enjoy a free day today for your own exploration! Perhaps visit the National Monument (commemorating those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom and based on the Iwo Jima Memorial in the USA), the vast National Mosque featuring a bold and modern design, or the Istana Negara (National Palace). You might like stroll Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), or shop in Suria KLCC (one of Malaysia’s premier shopping destinations) and then head up to the Skybridge & Observation Deck of the iconic Petronas Towers to get another view of the city. Lake Gardens is home to a number of sights, including the National Planetarium and the Islamic Arts Museum. Or if you’re seeking something active, you might like to join a bike tour.
Day 12 - Melaka
Transfer by local bus to the old port town of Melaka – once the most important trading port in Malaysia, attracting Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese and British traders. These visitors sought wealth or an opportunity to control the Straits of Malacca, a vital trading route between the Indian and Pacific oceans, which lead to 400 years of colonial rule. Today, Melaka's wealth of historical sites reminds visitors of times gone by, and its multicultural past is revealed in its distinctive cuisine. Like Georgetown, the Melaka was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, and like its Penang sibling, the city is a harmonic mix of cultures. When you arrive, you’ll have a free afternoon and evening to explore.
Day 13 - Melaka
Today, you’ll get to know this port city better with a trishaw tour along the narrow winding streets. You’ll admire Chinatown's unique Peranakan architecture, get a taste of old Melaka and learn about the ancient spice trade. Take in sites such as Harmony Street and stop by a mosque, Chinese Buddhist Temples, and a traditional Muslim house-museum. In your free time this afternoon there are plenty of historic sites and museums to check out. Maybe jump on two wheels for an eco bike tour around the city or see Melaka from a different perspective with a boat tour along the river.
Day 14 - Singapore
Travel by local bus to the last stop of the journey – Singapore. Singapore has few areas untouched by modernisation, but wandering the streets of Little India and Chinatown is a great way to see the old parts of the city. To explore further, check out the renowned shopping precinct of Orchard Road, or stop by Raffles to experience the old-world charm of a Singapore Sling. An evening in Singapore is not complete without a stroll along Clarke Quay, or even a river cruise to learn more about the fascinating history of this city. Your accommodation tonight is a centrally located hotel, perfect for easy exploring. Whatever you choose today, maybe gather together your fellow travellers for a celebratory drink or meal as your Bangkok to Singapore adventure comes to an end.
Day 15 - Jakarta
Take a short flight from Singapore to Jakarta to start the next part of your adventure. Your flight will be unaccompanied, but you’ll be transferred to the airport in Singapore and will be picked up by a local representative when you arrive in Jakarta. Arrive in time for a welcome meeting with your new leader and fellow travellers at 6 pm. If you get in a little early, why not check out some of Jakarta's interesting museums, such as the Wayang (puppetry), Balai Seni Rupa (fine arts) and maritime museums. The National Museum is also great for first-time visitors. For a city monument, check out the Monas (National Monument), dedicated to the spirit of the Indonesian people.
Day 16 - Jakarta
Familiarise yourself with the city on a full-day tour of Jakarta with your local leader. Take in Sunda Kelapa port – where the Dutch first landed, temple-filled Chinatown and the old town of Batavia. See Si Jagur – an old Portuguese cannon ornately decorated with a disguised meaning. Wander Fatahillah Square, then explore the religious side of the city at Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque – the largest mosque in South East Asia. Tonight, you’re free to find some delicious local eats – just ask your leader!
Day 17 - Yogyakarta
This morning, catch a train to Yogyakarta – this town is one of South East Asia's real gems! Known as Java's cultural heart, Yogyakarta has a great atmosphere and is perfect to explore on foot, offering a great array of cultural avenues to explore including batik workshops as well as Hindu and Buddhist temples. When you arrive, take some time to relax and freshen up before heading out with your leader this evening for a street food tour. You might try local delicacies like gudeg (jackfruit stew) and kopi joss (charcoal coffee).
Day 18 - Yogyakarta
Rise early to avoid the crowds at Candi Borobudur – the largest Buddhist structure on earth. This UNESCO World Heritage site is set in a tranquil park and as you approach, you'll see the temple rise before you, looming above tropical foliage. With your local guide, follow the route of ancient pilgrims, circling the mandala-shaped structure from the early realms towards Nirvana. In the afternoon, venture out of the city on a cycling tour through the rice fields and countryside surrounding Yogyakarta. You’ll pass palm trees, vast grasslands and maybe some locals making various goods like tofu and tempeh along the way, stopping for some great photo ops as you explore.
Day 19 - Seloliman Nature Reserve
Travel by train, then minivan to Seloliman Nature Reserve today. Have the lunch box on the train, which is a typical Javanese bento, using bamboo and banana leaves. When you arrive, you’ll meet some of the volunteers working at the Seloliman Environmental Education Centre and learn about what they do here. This peaceful reserve sits on the slopes of the sacred volcano, Mt Penanggungan. The centre's accommodation is atmospheric, even with open-air bathrooms built in harmony with the surrounding forest, so take this opportunity to relax this afternoon. This is a beautiful spot to appreciate nature, sit under the stars as the sun goes down and spend an evening technology-free! For dinner, sit down for some delicious, locally grown organic produce cooked by their staff.
Day 20 - Bromo
Join the reserve staff on a walk around the property this morning, learning about the local environment and the Javanese tradition of herbal medicine. You'll gain an insight into the region’s flora and fauna, traditional farming methods, rice production and the mini hydroelectricity plant. Finish up with a traditional jamu demonstration and a tasting of this Javanese herbal medicine. Enjoy lunch at the center before traveling onto Mt Bromo – the homeland of the Tenggerese. The still-active volcano – standing at 2329 m – is the most well-known of the Tengger massif. Retire early tonight in preparation for tomorrow's early start.
Day 21 - Kalibaru
Your early start today (around 3 am) will be well worth it! First, drive to a lookout point in jeeps to catch the sunrise over the sea of sand. After, you’ll climb up to the volcano crater to take a peek inside – the ascent is not too difficult (approximately 45 minutes), but it can be very cold, so don't forget to bring extra layers of clothing. It's also worth bringing a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, as it can get dusty. Return to the hotel to freshen up and then depart midmorning to Kalibaru by taking a local train. Tonight, you’re free to relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a local massage.
Day 22 - Pemuteran
Head out early this morning to tour some nearby coffee and cocoa plantations. You'll see how coffee is dried and if there’s time, how cocoa is fermented. Before you set off, enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea and snack on fried bananas – yum! Travel by minibus to the far eastern end of Java – Gilimanuk. There is often a lot of heavy traffic on this stretch of road as it's the main entry point for Bali, so there may be some delays. Next, you'll board a ferry across the Java Strait, then another minibus for a journey along the west coast of Bali to Pemuteran – your destination for the next two nights.
Day 23 - Pemuteran
Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beachside location. Maybe start the day with a yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. You could visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming off the coast, or think about booking in a snorkelling or diving expedition to the turquoise waters of Menjangan Island. Otherwise, simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their day-to-day on one of the beaches.
Day 24 - Ubud
Make the journey to Ubud today – the leafy-green natural paradise of Bali. On the way, stop in at Taman Ayun Temple, to take in the impressive Balinese architecture while you stroll around the gardens. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre with lots of markets, shops and warungs, close to verdant rice terraces and lush jungles. With nature and wellbeing at its core, Ubud is a highland haven popular with travellers. Tonight, why not get a group of your travel pals together and find a local place to eat some traditional Balinese cuisine.
Day 25 - Ubud
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. There is plenty to see and do in Ubud, so it’s highly recommended you stay another few days to explore. If you do, maybe hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies and small villages, or visit the galleries, museums and handicraft merchants in town. If you would like to spend more time in Ubud, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
Day 26 - Pemuteran
Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beachside location. Maybe start the day with a yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. You could visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming off the coast, or think about booking in a snorkelling or diving expedition to the turquoise waters of Menjangan Island. Otherwise, simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their day-to-day on one of the beaches.
Day 27 - Ubud
Make the journey to Ubud today – the leafy-green natural paradise of Bali. On the way, stop in at Taman Ayun Temple, to take in the impressive Balinese architecture while you stroll around the gardens. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre with lots of markets, shops and warungs, close to verdant rice terraces and lush jungles. With nature and wellbeing at its core, Ubud is a highland haven popular with travellers. Tonight, why not get a group of your travel pals together and find a local place to eat some traditional Balinese cuisine.
Day 28 - Ubud
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. There is plenty to see and do in Ubud, so it’s highly recommended you stay another few days to explore. If you do, maybe hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies and small villages, or visit the galleries, museums and handicraft merchants in town. If you would like to spend more time in Ubud, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
30-08-202626-09-2026AUD $ 8,495-
13-09-202610-10-2026AUD $ 8,090-
04-10-202631-10-2026AUD $ 8,560-
11-10-202607-11-2026AUD $ 7,830-
18-10-202614-11-2026AUD $ 8,030-
01-11-202628-11-2026AUD $ 8,690-
06-12-202602-01-2027AUD $ 7,830-
13-12-202609-01-2027AUD $ 8,030-
20-12-202616-01-2027AUD $ 8,260-
03-01-202727-01-2027AUD $ 7,490-
10-01-202703-02-2027AUD $ 8,330-
24-01-202717-02-2027AUD $ 8,330-
07-02-202703-03-2027AUD $ 8,360-
07-03-202731-03-2027AUD $ 6,990-
14-03-202707-04-2027AUD $ 6,990-
21-03-202714-04-2027AUD $ 8,735-
28-03-202721-04-2027AUD $ 8,575-
04-04-202728-04-2027AUD $ 8,330-
18-04-202712-05-2027AUD $ 7,340-
25-04-202719-05-2027AUD $ 7,340-
09-05-202702-06-2027AUD $ 6,990-
23-05-202716-06-2027AUD $ 7,340-
11-07-202704-08-2027AUD $ 6,990-
18-07-202711-08-2027AUD $ 8,735-
25-07-202718-08-2027AUD $ 8,735-
01-08-202725-08-2027AUD $ 8,735-
15-08-202708-09-2027AUD $ 8,575-
29-08-202722-09-2027AUD $ 8,575-
12-09-202706-10-2027AUD $ 7,340-
26-09-202720-10-2027AUD $ 7,340-
24-10-202717-11-2027AUD $ 6,990-
31-10-202724-11-2027AUD $ 8,330-
14-11-202708-12-2027AUD $ 8,330-
21-11-202715-12-2027AUD $ 8,330-
05-12-202729-12-2027AUD $ 7,340-
12-12-202705-01-2028AUD $ 7,340-
19-12-202712-01-2028AUD $ 6,990-
02-01-202826-01-2028AUD $ 7,490-
09-01-202802-02-2028AUD $ 7,490-
23-01-202816-02-2028AUD $ 7,490-
06-02-202801-03-2028AUD $ 7,490-
19-03-202812-04-2028AUD $ 7,340-
02-04-202826-04-2028AUD $ 7,340-
16-04-202810-05-2028AUD $ 7,340-
23-04-202817-05-2028AUD $ 7,340-
21-05-202814-06-2028AUD $ 7,340-
16-07-202809-08-2028AUD $ 7,340-
23-07-202816-08-2028AUD $ 7,340-
30-07-202823-08-2028AUD $ 7,340-
13-08-202806-09-2028AUD $ 7,340-
27-08-202820-09-2028AUD $ 7,340-
10-09-202804-10-2028AUD $ 7,340-
24-09-202818-10-2028AUD $ 7,340-
29-10-202822-11-2028AUD $ 7,340-
12-11-202806-12-2028AUD $ 7,340-
19-11-202813-12-2028AUD $ 7,340-
03-12-202827-12-2028AUD $ 7,340-
10-12-202803-01-2029AUD $ 7,340-

Accommodation

Hotel (16 nights), Eco Lodge (1 nights), Resort (6 nights), Overnight sleeper train (1 night)

Transport

Ferry, Private minibus, Public bus, Taxi, Train, Van, Plane, Kayak

Map